Jiyong,

You know I can't write sad stories. You know this, better than anyone. You've read all my published stories, you've gone through my discarded drafts, and you know, as well as I do, that I can't bring myself to write tragic endings.

But I found courage last night. I think I will always have the courage to step outside of my comfort zone when it comes to you. So forgive me if this letter appears too hasty, because I jumped out of bed at 3 in the morning and penned it before the courage faded away.

I love you, Jiyong. I love you so much. But I can't do it. I don't have the strength to endure your mother's sharp jibes, I can't find the strength to keep smiling when we both know your family would rather have her by your side. I don't think my battered, bruised heart can stand to see you laughing with her, smiling at her, with your family standing on the sidelines, encouraging you. I don't have the will to keep pushing forward, when every time I try to relieve my heart of its pain you shoot me down by telling me she is only a family friend.

Our relationship has reached its expiry date, and I am trying to be fine with this. Please make the same effort, for your parents, and for me. Be with her - she complements you well, and you will find that a much easier relationship than the one you are currently trying to survive.

Remember when we promised to never leave each other, no matter the circumstances? I'm sorry. You're probably condemning me to all seven hells now for breaking this promise, and I am so incredibly sorry, but I can't hold on any longer, and I'd like to end this with the knowledge that you were still in love with me when this happened. It's a pathetic, last-ditch attempt at salvaging my pride, I know, but my pride is the only thing I have left.

Don't worry about me. I'm going to disappear, and lose myself in the wonder that comes with being in foreign lands. I'm not coming back, but one day I'll write about us, and I hope that when I do, you'll read the story, and you'll know I'm doing fine.

-Chae.